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Fundraisers praise each other after 20 years raising cash together

A FUNDRAISER has praised the founder of an Evesham charity after the two marked twenty years of raising awareness and money together.

This year is the 20th in which guitar virtuoso Gordon Giltrap has supported local women Sue Sollis and the foundation she set in memory of her daughter Tracy Sollis.

The two met at the beginning of the Sollis' journey when they were still seeking a bone marrow transplant for Tracy and Mr Giltrap took part in a fundraising event.

Sadly they did not achieve their goal in time.

Ever since Mr Giltrap and Mrs Sollis have been a firm partnership in the fundraising stakes and this was celebrated at the Fleece Inn, Bretforton, when Mr Giltrap - a patron of the charity - performed to a full house raising an amazing £1,178.

He said: "It's been a privilege to be involved with this charity. It's been a privilege to have known Tracey and it's been a privilege to know Sue. She is one of the most remarkable people I know.

"Somebody should be making steps to put her name on the honours list. If anyone deserves it, it is Sue. She has raised thousands.

"All I can do is add my talent. I wish she would ask me to do more."

On the night of the celebrations Mrs Sollis arranged for some tribute messages to Mr Giltrap from Sir Cliff Richard, Oliver Wakeman, Roger Bruce and the former BBC correspondent Gary Hudson. He was also presented with a framed picture outlining his activities for The Trust over the years and a special pair of acoustic guitar socks.

Mrs Sollis added: "It's just amazing how quick the years have gone by. Really he has been absolutely amazing with his support.

"Obviously Tracy made a big impression on him as he used to visit her in the hospital. He has done what he can when he can and I can always count on him to help."